Dear Friends,
The leaves are turning and temperatures are dropping, a sure sign that Fall is here with winter just around the corner. I hope you'll get outside to enjoy the Fall colors in our community by stopping by a farmer's market, apple orchard, or other great Fall activities--before you know it, winter will be here!
I wanted to use this month's update to say a thank you to the community for coming together last week for the Walk To End Alzheimer's in Owatonna. My wife and I had the honor of serving as the honorary host family for this event, which took place at Morehouse Park.
This is a cause that's close to my heart; my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's five years ago, so it was special for me to be able to participate in this event to benefit her and the 5 million other Americans who live with this terrible disease.
More than 150 people turned out for the event, and according to the Owatonna People's Press, the event surpassed the fundraising goal of $23,000. That's a fantastic accomplishment given that this was the first year of the event. I look forward to this event being a staple in our community for years to come.
This disease is one that touches millions of families across the country. Each time someone is diagnosed, it's felt by their family and the greater community. Critical research is happening each and every day in hopes that we will find a way to prevent and cure Alzheimer's for future generations. For more information about the Walk to End Alzheimer's, or to donate to Alzheimer's research, please visit www.alz.org.
I also had the chance to attend the Waseca Area Foundation's Gala and Auction, which celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Foundation. The event was a great success, raising thousands for local grants that work to improve quality of life in our community, partnering with local groups in the areas of arts, education, recreation, and more.
Lastly, special congratulations to the Waseca High school football team, which clinched the South Central Conference Championship with their 42-0 win over St. James last Friday.
I will continue meeting with city and county officials, as well as constituents as interim goes on. If you have an issue you'd like to discuss, and would like to schedule a meeting in Owatonna or Waseca, please contact my office at rep.john.petersburg@house.mn or by calling 651-296-5368. My door is always open, and I would love to hear from you.
Sincerely,
John Petersburg
State Representative, District 24A